New Zealand Defeats Pakistan in Tri-Series Final Ahead of Champions Trophy
Pakistan's decision-making and fielding errors contribute to a five-wicket loss in the tri-nation series final in Karachi.
- New Zealand chased down Pakistan's 242-run target in 45.2 overs, securing their first tri-series title in Pakistan.
- Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan faced heavy criticism for choosing to bat first on a pitch that favored batting under lights.
- Fielding lapses, including dropped catches and a missed DRS opportunity, allowed Tom Latham to recover from poor form and score a crucial 56 runs.
- Will O'Rourke led New Zealand's bowling attack with 4-43, while Mitchell Santner's economical 2-20 restricted Pakistan's scoring in the middle overs.
- The two teams will meet again in the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy on February 19 at the same venue.